Apple has released iOS 26, its biggest iPhone update in years. The new operating system launched globally on September 15, 2025. iOS 26 brings a fresh new design called “Liquid Glass.” This design creates a fluid and glass-like interface with translucent elements throughout the system.
The Liquid Glass look changes the Lock Screen, Home Screen, app icons, buttons, and controls. Apple says this new design adds vitality and focus to the user experience. It also creates harmony across all Apple devices by extending to iPadOS, macOS, and tvOS for a consistent feel.
Apple introduced powerful new AI capabilities under “Apple Intelligence.” Siri gets a boost with ChatGPT integration, offering smarter and more natural responses. The Messages app features live translation of texts and FaceTime calls, enabling people to communicate effortlessly across languages. AI also powers other features like task suggestions and categorizing reminders automatically.
The Phone app has a new call screening feature. It asks unknown callers for their name and reason for calling, helping users avoid spam or unwanted calls. Another new feature called Hold Assist places users on hold automatically and alerts them when they are ready to talk.
iOS 26 offers updates to popular Apple apps such as CarPlay, Apple Music, Maps, Wallet, and Photos. CarPlay now shows more info at a glance and lets users react to messages with a tap. The Photos app has a new layout, making it easier to find pictures and add 3D effects. Wallet and Maps also received useful improvements.
Apple also launched “Apple Games,” a new app providing a single place to access all games on iPhone. The update introduces unique features for iPhone 15 Pro models. like Adaptive Power Mode that extends battery life by adjusting performance.
The lock screen now features a 3D photo effect and dynamic clock placement that changes based on the wallpaper. Users can customize Home Screen icons with new color tints and light or dark modes.
Apple emphasized privacy and security, highlighting that AI and new features are built with privacy in mind from the ground up. The update is available free to iPhone SE (2nd Generation) and newer models.
Apple emphasized privacy and security, highlighting that AI and new features are built with privacy in mind from the ground up. The update is available free to iPhone SE (2nd generation) and newer models.
Apple’s senior vice president of software engineering, Craig Federighi, said iOS 26 “makes iPhone even more helpful” with meaningful improvements and a gorgeous new design. The update balances expressiveness and familiarity for a delightful user experience.
Users can update their devices manually or set them to update automatically. Before updating, Apple recommends backing up data to avoid loss during installation.
Overall, iOS 26 marks a major step forward in design and intelligence for iPhone users worldwide, making everyday tasks easier and the interface more engaging than ever before.
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